Rolled flexible implants and device for deployment thereof

Abstract

A deployment device for a flexible implant includes a housing and one or two chambers formed therein. When two chambers are included, the housing can have two elongate openings formed in its outer sides, each providing side access to one of the chambers, and the flexible implant can be rolled into a double-rolled configuration and placed in the chambers of the deployment device in such a way that a middle portion of the flexible implant is external to the housing. When the flexible implant is rolled and loaded in the deployment device, the flexible implant can extend out through open end(s) of the chamber(s) or can be encapsulated within the chamber(s). The flexible implant can be provided separate from the deployment device. The flexible implant can include a flexible base sheet including a body portion and a tab. A flexible separable layer can be removably disposed on the body portion.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 658,696, filed Jun. 12, 2012, for all subject matter common to both applications. The disclosure of said provisional application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to single-rolled or double-rolled implants, and deployment devices suitable for use therewith. More particularly, the present invention provides a rolled implant and optionally a deployment device with one or more interior chambers adapted to releasably receive the implant in the rolled (e.g., single-rolled or double-rolled) configuration.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In open and laparoscopic hernia repair, mesh prostheses are utilized to provide reinforcement and support at the hernia defect. Such mesh prostheses or other sheet-like prostheses (e.g., films, surgical fabrics, and the like) are inserted through a small incision cu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enhances the ease of handling and deployment of flexible implants by allowing them to be rolled and unrolled efficiently, reducing the risk of rupture and improving placement accuracy during surgical procedures.

Problems solved by technology

However, manipulating sheet-like prostheses during laparoscopic procedures presents numerous challenges to a surgeon.

For example, trocars, when used, only provide a limited range of motion and require the user to utilize small instruments and graspers to manipulate, unroll, and position the mesh or prosthesis.

In particular, when exposed to moisture, such sheet-like prostheses can hydrate and become less stiff, making them more prone to rupture or tearing during handling.

Furthermore, some of the materials may have a layer of self-adhering material designed to adhere to moist tissue surfaces, which can further complicate a user's ability to handle and place the prosthesis during surgery and implantation.

Furthermore, in abdominal and pelvic laparoscopic procedures in particular, the insertion, placement, and application of such prostheses prove extremely challenging to surgeons.

As such, rupture or tear during handling is a large risk in such procedures as currently performed by doctors.

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